Amy Meng, Arts and Tech Editor
Based on a Courant Instagram poll held on Sept. 19, 2023 with 41 votes.
As Apple users anticipate the upcoming releases of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro-max, there is yet another huge change coming to the community. Rather than sticking to lightning chargers that have been used for over a decade, the iPhone 15 will switch to the USB-C cable to comply with the European Parliament regulation requiring all smartphone users to adopt the USB-C as the sole charging wire by 2024. According to a quote said by European Parliament rapporteur Alex Aguis Saliba on the parliament’s official website, “this future-proof law allows for the development of innovative charging solutions in the future, and it will benefit everyone – from frustrated consumers to our vulnerable environment.”
The new USB-C cables are up to ten times faster in terms of both charging and data transfers than the currently-used lightning cables. However, iPhone users will need to completely scrap the collections of lightning cables they have accumulated over the years. This is not the first time that Apple consumers have experienced a cable change; before 2012, Apple devices used the relatively larger 30-pin dock connector. Regardless of the improvements, it will take Apple consumers a while to adapt.
Apple’s iPhone is undoubtedly the most popular phone brand among students at the high school. For iMac and Chromebook users who already use USB-C chargers, they will only be adding yet another cable to their collection. However, some high school students have noticed the downsides of the incoming change. Junior Annabelle Bristol is supportive of Apple’s decision, but also finds it inconvenient. “I recently paid a lot of money for a ten foot charger for my phone, but I won’t be able to use it in the future if I buy a new phone,” Annabelle said.
On the other hand, Sophomore Miraclyn John Yesudian was not surprised with the charger change at all. “This has been long due,” she said. “Everyone has been using USB-C chargers for some time already, and they also charge faster.”
Whether you are supportive of using USB-C chargers for iPhones or not, it may be time to bid farewell to your box of lightning chargers, which will slowly accumulate dust after you purchase the iPhone 15 and future versions to come. As technology continues to adapt to modern world demands, users will need to adapt as well.
